The Power of Language in Othello In Othello, Shakespeare explores the relationship between words and events. Spoken thought, in drama, has all the power of action; talking about an event will make that event become reality for the listener, it will influence reality as if that event had happened. Shakespeare poignantly demonstrates the power of words through Othello's monologues. Othello struggles with the reality that Iago creates for him. When Othello speaks, he reveals that he is unable to refrain from carrying out acts that his own words and those of Iago have prophesied and initiated. Othello's monologues further demonstrate that even knowledge of the power of words cannot protect characters from the consequences that words demand. Talking about an event in Othello is prophecy, but it is more than a mere objective prediction of the future. they become the omnipotent initiators of action, once uttered they cannot be counteracted, they alone determine the course of the future. Othello's monologue before killing Desdemona is an excellent passage for studying Shakespeare's thesis on how words relate to action.7 Put out the light, and then I put out the light!8 If I put you out, flaming minister,9 I can restore your former light,10 if I should repent. But once your light is extinguished,11 You astute model of exalted nature,12 I know not where is that Promethean heat13 Which can rekindle your former light: when I have plucked the14 rose15 I cannot give it vital growth again,16 It needs it must wither. Ö(Othello, 5.2.7-...... middle of the sheet ......of the destinies of others. Shakespeare's language throughout his writings is incredibly forceful, but in Othello he makes a statement about the powerful impact that the spoken word has on reality. It is a message of responsibility and warning, Othello is a tragedy of powerful words spoken unrestrainedly. Works Cited and Consulted Campbell, Lily B. Shakespeare's Tragic Heroes New York: Barnes and Noble, Inc. , 1970. By Yanni, Robert. "Character Revealed Through Dialogue." Readings on The Tragedies, Ed. Muir, Kenneth. William Shakespeare: Othello New York: Penguin Books, 1968. Shakespeare, William In The Electric Shakespeare 1996. ://www.eiu.edu/~multilit/studyabroad/othello/othello_all.html. No line nos.